Operator error or what?

Ok guys, I'm still pretty new at reloading so cut me some slack if this is a rookie mistake. I got a new rifle (Remmy 700 in 308win) and sat down to start taking measurements to start working up loads for it. I used the Hornady OAL gauge and comparator and took about a dozen readings. Every one of them was at least .027 over the maximum COAL listed in the hornady manual. I'll try to get a pic up if it will help, but basically the bullet just sticking WAY out there. Is this something I'm doing wrong or is it maybe the chamber was cut too deep or something?

Not unusual at all. I would start at .015 off the lands and work a little closer if you want to tinker. Now depending on your bullet you may not be able to get all the way to touching the lands but you should be able to get close. The rule of thumb for smaller calibers is to seat at least the diameter of the bullet into the case..... for a 30 caliber I would think to the base of the neck would be sufficient.

Most remington 700 in 308 that I have encountered are cut deep so the bullet will stick to far. Br cateful because the case will not hold the bullet good enough. seat the bullet at saami specs to start of load. and do minor adjustment to get the best group.